A dry fall and a lack of significant winter precipitation is now taking its toll. Some of our usually dependable perennials that have proven to be hearty enough for the Northland are having a tough time this spring.
"Some people are talking about that they've lost up to fifty percent of their perennial gardens," says Tom Kasper. "I think it was the perfect storm... going into the winter with very little moisture content... then little to no snow cover... and then those very cold temps that we experienced in February." That combination of factors has contributed to loss of young trees, perennial plants, as well as generational shrubs.
Though this is not something that can typically be predicted, it may lead gardeners to prepare differently in the fall. Watering after a particularly dry autumn and covering with straw before the snow falls might become the new routine if dry conditions continue to be perceived as the norm.
You can hear Tips for Hardy Gardeners every other Tuesday at 8:20am on Northland Morning. Tips for Hardy Gardeners receives support from Grow Your Own Garden Supply in Duluth's Lincoln Park Craft District.
